A study of the mechanism of edema associated with menstruation

Abstract

The injection of crystalline preparations of estrone, progesterone, pregnanediol and testosterone induced the retention of sodium, chloride and water in normal dogs. Balance studies in human subjects demonstrated a retention of sodium, chloride and water during the intermenstrual as well as the premenstrual phase of the cycle. The onset of menstruation was associated with an increased renal excretion of sodium, chloride and water. Normal subjects, in whom no dietary restrictions were imposed, were observed to gain weight during the intermenstrual as well as during the premenstrual phase of the cycle. An increase in appetite and thirst was a striking symptom noted during the premenstrual period. The increase in the secretion of sex hormones and the increase in appetite and thirst appear to be contributing factors in body weight gain, which occurs during the menstrual cycle. © 1938 by The Endocrine Society.